Just want to say that Jail will show him he has to pay for his actions. And if he does go to jail there will be probation that follows. The probation department will make sure he follows treatment if that is ordered. And you can tell the courts why he wanted money. Do not know him but if you get away with it once, you might do it again.
Some might think the worse about jail. But it is not as scary as you think. Been there myself and my son has been in and out of prison.
If it can be worked out without the law that would be good. Not trying to sound hard but wanted to let you know my thoughts. I would rather see him in jail than sick or worse by drugs. Jail will keep him from using and probation will put him back in jail if he does.